Airbus recently completed the delivery of several helicopters to the Hungarian, French, and Spanish Armed Forces, marking a significant step in enhancing NATO capabilities within these countries. This delivery is a part of various agreements established with these member nations and includes Airbus’ advanced helicopter models: H225, H145, and H135, which are designed for diverse operational roles.
The distribution of helicopters aligns with a broader agreement between Airbus and the European Union’s Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation. This pact aims to extend global support for the Tiger mission helicopter, which is currently operational in France, Spain, and Germany, enhancing European defense collaboration.
For Hungary, the delivery included two H225 helicopters, fulfilling part of a contract initiated in 2018 that aims to replace the nation’s aging Soviet-era rotorcraft fleet. This latest delivery marks the sixth pair in a project that plans to introduce up to 20 H225 systems to the Hungarian military. The first two helicopters were delivered earlier in July 2023, underscoring a steady progression toward modernizing the country’s air capabilities.
In France, Airbus has started delivering the H145 helicopters, beginning with the first unit out of a total order of up to 45 systems placed in 2023. These helicopters serve a critical role in various missions, including rescue operations, emergency services, and law enforcement tasks. Approximately 30 of the incoming helicopters will bolster the capabilities of the French Civil Defense agency, while the remaining units will be assigned to the National Gendarmerie.
Spain has also welcomed a new delivery of five H135 helicopters. These aircraft are part of a broader commitment to acquire 36 helicopters announced in 2021, aimed at supporting the operations of the Navy, Air and Space Force, Civil Guard, and National Police. With this handover, the total number of H135 helicopters operated by the Spanish government has now reached 100, reinforcing the nation’s aerial response capacities.
In parallel with these deliveries, Airbus has secured additional contracts in November for the supply of 12 H225 helicopters to the Dutch Ministry of Defence, as well as 19 H135 helicopters for the Royal Canadian Air Force. Concurrently, Airbus has completed flight testing for a new version of the NH90 helicopter tailored to meet the German Navy’s specific maritime mission requirements. Furthermore, the company recently demonstrated the unmanned Lakota helicopter designed for the U.S. Marine Corps, showcasing its commitment to innovation in defense technology. Earlier this year, Airbus also finalized agreements to deliver H145 helicopters to Indonesia and H225 systems to Iraq, further expanding its global presence in the defense aerospace sector.
